WE'RE AMERICAN S, WE JUST DRIVE TO THE STORE, THANKS:

Some tricks for recipe substitutions (HELOISE, 6/24/06, Seattle Post-Intelligencer)

Dear Readers: Who hasn't been in the middle of making a recipe only to find that you are out of an ingredient? So, you either are forced to rush out to the store or attempt to find something that you can substitute.

Here are some substitutions you may find helpful! But keep in mind that sometimes when you substitute, the flavor and texture of a recipe may not be the same:

# Apple-pie spice: For each teaspoon of seasoning, mix 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon and 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg.

# Baking powder: For each teaspoon needed, mix 1/4 teaspoon baking soda and 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar.

# Bread crumbs: Crush crackers, cereal or chips to use in place of them.

# Buttermilk: For 1 cup, mix 1 tablespoon vinegar and 1 cup regular milk.

# Chocolate: Don't have a square of unsweetened chocolate for baking? Substitute 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder and 1 tablespoon cooking oil (or shortening) for one square.

# Cornstarch: For each tablespoon of cornstarch, use 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour.

# Tomato sauce: For 1 cup, mix 1/2 cup tomato paste and 1/2 cup water.